The Department of Translational Science and Medicine at the College of Community Health Sciences hosted “Polymers for Advanced Technologies Symposium: Energy, Health, and Electronics” June 30.
The one-day symposium, held at the Bryant Conference Center on The University of Alabama campus, brought together leading scientists to share research about how polymer science is shaping innovations in health care, energy and electronics. Participants also discussed real-world applications.
The symposium was held in honor of Dr. Abraham J. Domb, whose contributions to science, particularly in medicinal chemistry and biopolymers, have had a global impact. In addition to his pioneering research, Domb has influenced science policy through his role as chief scientist at Israel’s Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology.
“This symposium is a fitting tribute to Professor Domb, whose work continues to inspire advances in polymer research,” said Dr. Ravi Kumar, Distinguished University Research Professor at CCHS, in opening remarks.
Dr. James Dalton, UA’s executive vice president and provost and a CCHS faculty member, praised Kumar for organizing the event and gathering a distinguished group of scientists.
“Ravi is not only an exceptional scientist but also generous and deeply respected. When he invites a group like this, people show up,” Dalton said. “He’s assembled an outstanding lineup of speakers today—a true “who’s who” in polymer science and drug delivery.”
Dr. Bryant Boudouris, UA’s vice president for research and economic development, also spoke, emphasizing the University’s strong and growing research profile. “We’ve seen consistent progress in funding, output and recognition over the past 10 years,” he said. “That success reflects the dedication and vision across our research community, with polymer science playing a key role.”
Beyond celebrating Domb’s legacy, the symposium reflected a shared commitment to using science to solve pressing global challenges. Throughout the day, conversations highlighted the power of collaboration and the transformative potential of polymer technologies to improve lives around the world.
In addition to Domb, keynote speakers included: Dr. Nicholas Peppas, a biomedical and chemical engineer; Dr. Stuart Rowan, the Barry L. McLean Professor of Molecular Engineering and professor of chemistry at the University of Chicago in Illinois; Dr. Henry Brem, the Harvey Cushing Professor of Neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Md.; Dr. Rafael Verduzco, professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering and materials sciences and nanoengineering at Rice University in Houston, Texas; Dr. Kam Leong, the Samuel Y. Sheng Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Columbia University in New York; and Dr. Robert Langer, an institute professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge.